Student Group Appalled Over Boakai’s Withdrawal of Cllr. Livingstone’s Nomination
— Says President’s decision was unfair
The Mass Communication Student Association (MACSA) at the United Methodist University (UMU) has expressed solidarity with Cllr. Bobby W. Livingstone, a respected professor and legal professional, following the withdrawal of his appointment by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai.
The students found the withdrawal circumstances embarrassing and unfair, given Cllr. Livingstone's reputation and qualifications.
President Boakai last month nominated Cllr. Livingstone as Deputy Minister for Public Affairs at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism (MICAT). However, the nomination was withdrawn as the nominee’s name was not vetted prior to being named to the post.
“The manner in which the nomination was withdrawn after appearing for confirmation was quite embarrassing and humiliating, which has deeply saddened and disappointed us, the students,” MACSA, through its president, Kuku Brooks, said in a statement on Monday. “Cllr. Livingstone is an astute journalism professional and seasoned educator who has always exemplified integrity and dedication in his work.”
“It was rather unfortunate that Cllr. Livingstone was treated in such a manner after being named on March 12 and subsequently appeared for a confirmation hearing on April 3, before the Liberian Senate,” Brooks added. “Cllr. Livingstone, an astute professional character, is a man who has lived an exemplary life and there was no need to have treated him in such a demeaning manner.”
Additionally, MACSA members are concerned about media reports that suggest that the recall of Cllr. Livingstone’s nomination is associated with his role as a prosecutor in Gloria Musu-Scott’s case, although these reports are not verified.
“Such reports are disturbing and create the fear that he is being witch-hunted for doing a job as a prosecutor for the government,” the MACSA president noted. “We call for a fair assessment of such claims made against Cllr. Livingstone relates to his role in the Gloria Scott case.”
Photo 2: MACSA leadership in a solidarity posture, President Kuku Brooks is 2nd from right
She said though the rumors are unconfirmed, it could be because of unsubstantiated accusations against Cllr. Livingstone, that a decision was taken against him. “If this is true, then this is pure witch-hunt. We cannot continue to treat professionals in such a manner in this country. The Unity party government cannot be doing the same things its stalwarts and supporters frowned at and criticized others of yesterday,” Brooks said.
MACSA, in the statement, highlighted the exemplary character and expertise of Cllr. Livingstone, urging President Boakai to reconsider the decision. The students believe that Cllr. Livingstone's experience and dedication make him a valuable asset to the government.
“We firmly believe that, Cllr. Livingstone is qualified and competent for the Deputy Minister for Public Affairs position, considering his vast experience and commitment to excellence,” Brooks said. “We want to urge President Boakai to reconsider the decision and to give Cllr. Livingstone the opportunity to showcase his expertise as he will be an asset to the team.”
She urged the President to uphold the principles of fairness, especially where he is a leader for all Liberians, Cllr. Livingstone is no exception.
“We want to call on President Boakai to ignore those who are providing false claims against Cllr. Livingstone. Being a veteran journalist, a legal scholar, and an educator, he is capable of bringing new dynamism and professionalism to the Deputy Minister for Public Affairs portfolio, one of the spokespersons of the Liberian government.”
As students aspiring to a future in communications and media, the MACSA members expressed belief in upholding ethical standards and fairness in all aspects of professional conduct. “We stand with Cllr. Livingstone in solidarity against any unjust treatment and we call for a resolution that honors his dedication and expertise within the Liberian government,” the statement said.
Meanwhile, Cllr. Livingstone has been teaching at the United Methodist University (UMU) from 2011 to 2024; 2013 - 2019 chair of UMU Mass Com Dept, revamped the Department from a cubicle to a fully functioning Department with about 100 students; taught urban and rural sociology at the UL.
He is also a veteran journalist who led the transformative effort of the NEC Public Affairs office with only an information officer to the public information and outreach dept. 2006-2011 and launched the ‘election & you’ radio program; at UMU, published the ‘UMU Trumpet’; at NEC published ‘The Ballot’ and ‘NEC Brief’ at LTC served as Manager for PR 1999-2004; there revamped the dept. and launched the ‘Satellite’ Newsletter. 2012 became a lawyer- 2013 -2015 public defender at 10th judicial circuit, judiciary branch; 2016- 2018 “Legal Counsel/ Prosecutor, MoJ; 2019-2021 Chief of LEC theft matters at Sannoh & partners (private practice of law) records are there; 2021 returned to MoJ and became head of Financial Crimes Unit, a post he presently holds with a good record of robust and adequate legal representation.